The Rural Voice, 2003-05, Page 27of the Armstrong operation grew and
the children moved on to other
endeavours, the time available for
showing decreased.
Where they once showed as many
as 20 cattle, though they averaged 10
head over the years, the Armstrongs
have only taken one or two in the last
couple years.
In spite of that, Armstrong said,
"We have accomplished more with
only one animal at the show."
In 2002, Armstrong was named
Premier Breeder as animals raised
and shown by others took numerous
prizes. This is where the success of
the breeding program shines through.
With nine other cattle on exhibit
which had originated from the
Armstrongs herd, there were three
first -place finishes including milking
yearling, senior yearling and four-
year-old. There were also three
reserve champion awards.
"It is the first time the Premier
award has been won by someone
with only one cow," smiled
Armstrong.
With the herd prefix attached
to any animals sold from
the Armstrong farm, his
line still gets the advertisement. "We
are proud of the show results, but
also proud of the breeding on this
farm as well," he said.
That continued success of the
breeding line at events such as the
Royal has brought buyers from
around the world. Since their first
win, the Armstrongs have been
fielding calls from the States about
bulls, embryos and breeders.
"A lot of them want to get show
animals. They will buy what will win
a prize and nothing else matters."
said Armstrong.
However, some are looking for
good breeding stock, he added.
As Royal winners, information is
posted on the internet which has also
helped open up the international
market.
With his triumph at the 2002
Royal, Armstrong said he will
probably continue for a few more
years as long as he still enjoys it.
"If it was not for trying to breed
great cattle, I wouldn't milk," he
said. "The part I enjoy is trying to
breed a better cow, to cross the right
genetics to get the perfect one."0
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MAY 2003 23